C. OVERVIEW OF THE DIRECTIVE 1. At a glance Provision What it covers Particular aspects Article 1 Subject matter  Lays down rules concerning the right to information of suspects and accused persons in relation to their rights in criminal proceedings and to the accusation against them.  Applies also to European Arrest Warrant cases.  Applies from the time persons are ‘made aware by the competent authorities … that they are suspected or accused of having committed a criminal offence until the conclusion of the proceedings’.  Where minor offences sanctioned administratively and only the appeal is before a court, the Directive applies only to proceedings before the court.  Right for suspects or accused persons to be provided promptly with information relating to procedural rights, including: Article 2 Article 3 Article 4 Scope Right to information about rights Letter of Rights on arrest o Access to a lawyer; o Entitlement to free legal advice and the conditions for obtaining such legal advice; o To be informed of the accusation; o Interpretation and translation; and o Remain silent.  The information shall be given orally or in writing, in simple and accessible language, taking into account the needs of the suspects/persons.  Entitles suspects or accused persons, who are arrested or detained, to a written Letter of Rights. They should be able to read the letter and keep it throughout the time they are detained.  The Letter of Rights shall also contain information on the following rights: o Access of the materials of the case; o To have consular authorities and one person informed; o Access to urgent medical assistance; and o The maximum number of hours they may be deprived of 9